Origin
The Russian Blue originates from northern Russia, probably the port city of Arkhangelsk. British sailors brought these cats to Europe in the 19th century. The cat was a favourite of the Russian tsars. After World War II the breed nearly disappeared; breeders in England and Scandinavia saved it through crossings with Blue British Shorthairs and Siamese. The breed is now recognised worldwide.

Character
Calm, intelligent and very loyal. Very attached to its owner but shy with strangers. Gentle, playful and tolerates solitude well. Not very vocal but communicates in its own way.

Care
The dense, plush coat is easy to maintain. Weekly brushing suffices.

Body: medium to large, slender and muscular. Semi-foreign type.
Head: wedge shape, broad forehead, flat skull.
Eyes: large, almond-shaped and well spaced. Vivid green obligatory.
Ears: large, wide at the base, pointed, little hair inside.
Tail: long and straight.
Coat: short, dense and plush, double coat with silvery sheen.
Colour: blue (blue-grey) only, with silver sheen on the hair tips.